#United States #Santa Barbara #Clearway Health #Specialty Pharmacy #Cottage Health

Cottage Health and Clearway Health Join Forces for Specialty Pharmacy Program

In a pivotal move to enhance the quality of medical care, Cottage Health, based in Santa Barbara, has partnered with Clearway Health, a prominent player in the specialty pharmacy services arena. This collaboration aims to establish a comprehensive specialty pharmacy program that promises to revolutionize patient access to necessary medications through personalized, concierge-level service at a more affordable cost.

Enhanced Access and Support

The partnership is set to introduce tailored pharmacy support within Cottage Health's specialty outpatient clinics, thereby improving the process for patients who require high-cost specialty medications. Lisa Moore, the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Cottage Health, emphasized the critical importance of integrating pharmacy services directly into clinical settings. "This allows us to address the unique challenges patients face with specialty medications,” she stated. “Our goal is to ensure that patients receive the necessary therapies while simultaneously reducing barriers and improving health outcomes."

The specialty pharmacy program focuses on simplifying the prescription experience by providing assistance with insurance approvals, managing financial aid, facilitating medication deliveries, and offering ongoing support. This strategic move aims to alleviate the stress usually associated with specialty drug management, ensuring patients can focus on their health without unnecessary delays.

Coordinated Care Under One Roof

Under this new program, pharmacy staff, including patient liaisons, will be embedded within Cottage Health's clinics. These professionals will work closely with patients, helping them navigate the complexities of insurance coverage, securing financial assistance, and managing prior authorizations – all of which are essential services that can significantly reduce administrative burdens.

The initiative has already made its debut in the Cottage Cystic Fibrosis Clinic and various pediatric clinics. Patient liaisons in these facilities are assisting with access to both specialty and non-specialty medications, thereby expanding the reach of pharmacy services to a wider patient base. Specialty medications, which often demand specific handling, administration, and monitoring, are frequently used for treating chronic conditions such as cystic fibrosis, multiple sclerosis, cancer, and various inflammatory diseases.

The Future of Specialty Pharmacy Services

Clearway Health is excited to collaborate with Cottage Health on this ambitious endeavor. Allison Arant, Senior Vice President of Client Development and Marketing at Clearway Health, noted, "Our mission aligns perfectly with Cottage Health’s patient-first approach. Together, we aim to improve access to care, helping patients manage their complex medical needs effectively. We believe that every patient deserves the transformative care this partnership will provide."

Looking ahead, there are plans to expand the specialty pharmacy services across more Cottage Health clinics. Future developments include the establishment of an outpatient retail and specialty pharmacy, further enhancing access and convenience for patients seeking medication. This initiative signifies a considerable advancement in Cottage Health's commitment to integrated medical care, aiming to create a seamless experience for patients from medication access to ongoing treatment.

About Clearway Health

Clearway Health is dedicated to building impactful specialty pharmacy programs that serve hospitals and healthcare systems. With a foundation in the Boston Medical Center Health System, the company is equipped with the knowledge necessary to tackle the challenges faced by vulnerable patient populations, ensuring that every patient has access to essential services. By partnering with organizations like Cottage Health, Clearway Health fosters improvements in operational workflows and clinical practices, leading to better health outcomes in the communities they serve.

About Cottage Health

Cottage Health is a renowned not-for-profit health system located on California's Central Coast. Through its hospitals in Goleta, Santa Barbara, and Santa Ynez Valley, it has provided exceptional medical care to thousands of patients, delivering comprehensive health services through skilled specialists and modern facilities. Committed to education, it also trains physicians in various medical specialties, ensuring the next generation of healthcare professionals is well-equipped to further the mission of patient-centered care.